The honor was bestowed at the Natural Resources Commission meeting in Lansing on Dec. 13.

“Meijer is a valuable partner in our efforts to increase participation in hunting, fishing and outdoor recreation,” said DNR Director Keith Creagh. “We’re pleased to recognize this Michigan-based company for supporting the youth of this state and helping to keep our state’s outdoor tradition going strong.”

Meijer has long been one of the state’s top license vendors and supported many local programs aimed at getting Michigan residents outdoors, Creagh said, but the company was singled out for a program it initiated in 2008 that pays for junior hunting licenses which cost $7.50.

During the free junior license coupon promotion period in September, Meijer issued nearly half of all junior hunting licenses in the state.

“By making it more affordable for parents to help their children experience hunting for the first time, we believe Meijer played a role in the growth of hunting license sales for the state of Michigan in 2012," said Kyle Orme, division merchandise manager for the Walker-based retailer. "As a strong supporter of the Michigan economy, Meijer is proud to be part of that success story.”